Nollywood actress Ashabi Simple, who has two children with Nigerian singer Portable, has begun her National Youth Service Corps programme at the Ogun State orientation camp in Sagamu.
The actress, whose real name is Akinyanju Omobolarinde, announced her participation in the scheme through Instagram posts on Wednesday and Friday, describing it as the fulfilment of a long-held personal dream.
Ashabi shares two children with Portable, whose real name is Habeeb Okikiola Badmus. Their relationship has been characterised by public disagreements, including a dispute over her status in the singer’s life.
In January 2026, Ashabi and her siblings accused Portable of assault following a confrontation at his bar in Ogun State. The singer was subsequently arrested and charged over the incident.
The disagreement extended to the welfare of their children in September, when Ashabi accused Portable of failing to provide adequate financial support. Portable later demanded DNA tests to establish the paternity of the children before providing further support.
Recounting her educational journey, Ashabi said it took her five years after secondary school to gain admission into a university and another three years after graduation to begin the one-year national service programme.
She recalled her mother’s encouragement and desire to see her and her sister complete their education.
“My mum once said to me and my sis tee, ‘Mo fe ke ka iwe, mo fe ke wo aso copper.’ Those words have continued to ring in my head every single day,” she wrote.
The actress described her participation in the scheme as the fulfilment of a personal goal and a promise she made to herself.
“Today, I am reminded of one of the many reasons I went to school. It was a dream, a goal, and a promise I made to myself that I must fulfil.
“And today, here I am, proudly serving my country, Nigeria! My heart is full. My joy is immeasurable. COPPER ASHABI IN THE BUILDING!” she added.
She also appreciated those who encouraged and supported her, noting that her mother’s wish was gradually becoming a reality.
In another Instagram post on Wednesday, Ashabi thanked people at the orientation camp for the warm reception, including greetings, hugs and free food.
“I feel so honoured today. The way everyone embraced me at the camp, greeted me warmly, hugged me and made me feel so welcomed. I was just smiling like, ‘Ah-ah! So celebrity don land here?'” she wrote.
She described the gestures as meaningful, adding that she did not take the kindness and support for granted.
